Getting an online degree in criminal justice is a great way to open up your career opportunities. It is important, however, to choose a program and an accredited distance learning school that will lead you on a career path that is most desirable to you. Whether you are looking to start a career in law enforcement, corrections, or in the court system, or just looking to advance your current career path, an education in criminal justice will certainly help.
Learning criminal justice online requires high motivation and commitment, though it is popular due to the amount of flexibility and accessibility of the class. Do coursework at home whenever best suits your schedule, and listen to lectures multiple times and at your own pace. Be sure to communicate with your instructor and other students as the coursework won’t be easy. Plan study sessions for tests with fellow classmates, get feedback for essays and projects, and stay active in discussion threads. The courses you take will prepare you for a job in a wide variety of criminal justice agencies around the world.
Online criminal justice programs will boost your career opportunities
Typically, online schools offer the same types of criminal justice programs, certifications, and other opportunities as traditional college campuses do. Each program will lead you down a different career path, so it is important to speak with a college guidance counselor so that you achieve your goals in the most efficient way possible. In every program you can expect to study the theory, laws, ethics, and policies in the criminal justice system, the process of collecting evidence, and the role of law enforcement agencies.
Depending on the school you attend, there are many specialized programs including:
- Associates, bachelors, and masters in criminal justice
- Juvenile justice
- Social and criminal justice
- Homeland security
- Corrections
- Forensics
- Criminology
The program that you choose to undergo is up to you. It is good to keep in mind the amount of time it takes to complete the degree, the specific area of work that you are wanting to get into, and if you plan on pursuing an advanced degree or certification.
The jobs you can expect to get with an online criminal justice degree
Whichever program you choose, the career fields in criminal justice are vast, including:
- FBI, CIA, DEA, and secret service agent
- Police officer, detective, and US marshal
- Correctional and parole officer
- Forensic criminologist
- Crime laboratory analyst
- Asset protection specialist
- Cyber security professional
- Fish and game warden
- Fraud investigator
- Immigration and customs enforcement agent
Many students go on to pursue their education in a master’s program or law school as well.
Launching a career in the legal system by way of criminal justice can be both fulfilling and lucrative, just be sure that you research your options before you begin down a career path that you might not enjoy. Planning for your career is just as important as going to school, but with so many options for criminal justice majors, you can be confident in choosing a degree field that will help you achieve long-term success.
Become a Criminal Justice Expert by Obtaining Your Degree Online | Peterson’s Online Schools
